When guests come over, your dog may get extra excited or stressed with all the new attention, scents, and noises. After the hustle and bustle of the visit, it’s essential to help your dog calm down and feel refreshed. Here’s a guide on how to freshen up your dog once the guests have left, ensuring they feel comfortable, clean, and settled.
1. Give Your Dog Some Quiet Time
After all the excitement of guests, your dog may need some time to unwind. Close off areas that are typically loud or busy, like the front door or the living room where guests were gathered. Make sure your dog has a safe space where they can relax, away from the chaos. This quiet space can be their crate, a cozy bed, or a room where they feel secure.
2. Hydrate and Feed
All the excitement can leave your dog a little tired or dehydrated. Offering fresh water and a light snack can help them replenish their energy. If your dog’s routine was disrupted during your guests’ visit, this is a good time to get them back on track with their usual mealtime. Some dogs may be a bit off their food after a busy visit, but offering a small amount of their regular food can help settle their stomach.
3. A Gentle Brushing
Whether your dog is long-haired or short-haired, a gentle brushing can do wonders after an eventful visit. It helps remove any tangles or mats in their fur that may have formed during the excitement. It also serves as a calming activity, allowing your dog to relax while you care for them. If they were in close contact with guests who may have had strong scents, brushing also helps remove any lingering smells from their coat.
4. Give Them a Bath (If Necessary)
If your dog got extra dirty during your guests’ visit, such as from outdoor play or getting treats or food on their fur, a bath may be in order. Use a dog-friendly shampoo and make sure the water is lukewarm. Dogs who are nervous about water may find it relaxing when you approach them gently and speak in a calm tone. After the bath, dry them thoroughly with a towel and give them some time to shake off any excess water.
5. Clean Their Paws
Guests often bring in dirt, dust, or other debris from outside, which can stick to your dog’s paws. After a visit, check their paws for any debris, like mud, grass, or sand, especially if they’ve been outside. You can wipe their paws with a wet cloth or use a dog-specific paw cleaner to freshen them up. This ensures your dog feels clean and helps keep your home tidy.
6. Change Their Bedding
If your dog has a favorite spot where they usually nap, such as a bed or blanket, it’s a good idea to change or wash their bedding after guests leave. Guests might have tracked in unfamiliar smells, or your dog may have become a little sweaty or dirty from the excitement. Fresh bedding gives your dog a clean, comfortable place to rest and further helps them decompress after a busy time.
7. Calming Treats or Toys
To help your dog settle down, offer a calming treat or a favorite toy. Some dogs enjoy chewing on treats or toys that help reduce anxiety. There are also calming treats available that include natural ingredients like chamomile or valerian root, which can help soothe your dog’s nerves. These can be especially useful if your dog becomes overwhelmed after a visit.
8. Physical Activity
While it’s important to let your dog relax, some light exercise can also help them release any pent-up energy. A short walk around the block or some time in the yard can help your dog unwind and get back to their usual calm self. Avoid overexerting them, though; after a long day of interacting with guests, your dog might need a more relaxed walk.
9. Essential Oils or Aromatherapy
If your dog enjoys the scent of certain oils, consider using pet-safe essential oils or an aromatherapy diffuser to create a calming atmosphere. Scents like lavender or chamomile can promote relaxation. Be sure to check that any oils used are safe for dogs, as some essential oils can be harmful to pets.
10. Re-establish Routine
One of the best ways to freshen up your dog after the excitement of guests is to return to their usual routine. Dogs thrive on consistency, and the familiar structure will help them feel more comfortable. If their walk time or playtime was disrupted during the visit, make sure to follow through on these activities as soon as possible. Returning to their regular schedule will help them feel more at ease.
11. Monitor Their Behavior
After your guests leave, keep an eye on your dog for a few hours. Some dogs may show signs of stress, such as pacing, whining, or excessive licking, after being around a lot of people. If you notice unusual behavior, it may be helpful to give them even more space or some extra time to adjust. If the stress seems prolonged, consider consulting a veterinarian for advice.
12. Give Your Dog Some Extra Love
Finally, one of the best ways to help your dog feel fresh and comfortable after guests leave is to offer them extra love and attention. Gentle petting, cuddles, and calm talking can help your dog know that everything is back to normal. Some dogs may be content to curl up with you for a while, enjoying the peace and quiet.
By following these simple steps, you can help your dog feel refreshed and relaxed after the excitement of having guests over. Not only will it help them physically recover, but it will also ensure they feel emotionally secure and comfortable once the house settles down again. Whether it’s a little quiet time, a bath, or some extra affection, these actions will show your dog just how much you care and help them return to their happy, relaxed state.
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